Some days ago in my work with UNICEF the issue of children’s rights and slave labor came up. My comment was that I did not really feel this was a major issue in China. Sure, there are problems here but I don’t think it is a priority among the issues affecting China.
An article dated 19 February in the IHT gives some insights in the situation in India where the government is trying to enforce the Chile Labor Law but faces little progress. Official government figures estimate about 12 million children under 14 are employed – often under real slave conditions. Others estimate the figure could be closer to 60 million. It is a lucrative business and many girls end up in prostitution.
At the same time the Deccan Herald (Bangalore, India) reported 47% of Indian children are malnourished against 8% in China. (IHT 20 February)
So, China is doing quite well here. We are even facing serious obesity among the young in China and the need for more physical exercise.
Positive news should be reported too.